Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed wet-clutch DSG (and locking differential) instead of the seven-speed unit equipped in Europe, thanks to the absence of a petrol particulate filter on its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. (Recently applied to models in Europe.)

Again like the 40 Years special, peak torque in this unit will come in at 1750rpm – later than with the regular GTI's 1600rpm but earlier than the R's 1850rpm.

Nonetheless, the GTI TCR's status as the quickest-ever GTI is only slightly tarnished in Australian spec: whereas the European version claims a 0-100km/h time of 5.6 seconds, local models will get there in 5.7 seconds.

That betters the 2016 GTI 40 Years' claim of 6.3 seconds, and the updated MY20 GTI's 6.2-second run. It's also, just barely, within a second of the R's official 4.8 seconds.

Away from the peculiarities of Volkswagen's ongoing balancing act between ever-tightening European emissions regulations and Australia's comparatively lax laws, the GTI TCR boasts a number of other special features.

Those include a bespoke adaptive chassis control and performance front brake system, along with a firmer and 5mm-lower ride than the regular GTI.

A freer-flowing exhaust system is also featured, giving the TCR a more satisfying note.

LED headlights with dynamic cornering lights are standard, along with dynamic light assist.

A new Pure Grey colour is offered alongside the GTI-specific Pure White and Tornado Red colours, joined by a black roof, unique honeycomb graphics down the side, and 19-inch wheels.

Inside, there's Alcantara highlights to the gearshift lever and door trim inserts, along with new black and red combination cloth/microfleece trim, and a tweaked steering wheel design with perforated leather at the hand grips and a red 12 o'clock marker. Seat belts and floor mats get red trim.

The only optional extra on offer is a $1900 glass panoramic sunroof.

The Golf GTI TCR will arrive in Australia from July, with production kicking off in April.